QuestionJuly 30, 2025

3. How does evidence of the ages of crustal rocks support the theory of plate tectonics? __

3. How does evidence of the ages of crustal rocks support the theory of plate tectonics? __
3. How does evidence of the ages of crustal rocks support the theory of plate tectonics? __

Solution
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Answer

The ages of crustal rocks support plate tectonics by showing patterns consistent with seafloor spreading and plate movement. Explanation 1. Identify Age Patterns The ages of crustal rocks show a pattern where the youngest rocks are found at mid-ocean ridges and become progressively older as you move away from the ridge. 2. Explain Seafloor Spreading This age distribution supports seafloor spreading, a key mechanism in plate tectonics, where new crust forms at mid-ocean ridges and moves outward. 3. Correlate with Plate Movement The movement of crustal plates is evidenced by the symmetrical age patterns on either side of mid-ocean ridges, indicating that plates are moving apart.

Explanation

1. Identify Age Patterns<br /> The ages of crustal rocks show a pattern where the youngest rocks are found at mid-ocean ridges and become progressively older as you move away from the ridge.<br /><br />2. Explain Seafloor Spreading<br /> This age distribution supports seafloor spreading, a key mechanism in plate tectonics, where new crust forms at mid-ocean ridges and moves outward.<br /><br />3. Correlate with Plate Movement<br /> The movement of crustal plates is evidenced by the symmetrical age patterns on either side of mid-ocean ridges, indicating that plates are moving apart.
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